About David N

About David

I am a 20 year musician with 11 years teaching experience. Born and raised in New York City, I attended Laguardia high school for music and art and afterward Queens College majoring in music. My main instruments are Clarinet, Drums, and Saxophone, but i also have a strong background in Piano, Trumpet, and Flute. I've taken private music lessons for the past 15 years with world class musicians, among them David Weber and Howard Hirsch. I've performed in every major concert hall in New York City, including Carnegie Hall when i was only 11 years old. I performed alongside many famous musicians, including the late Tito Puente.

*** Lesson Details ***My teaching includes all aspects of music; Musical theory, sight singing, as well as Music History. My teaching style allows the child to have fun while they learn their instrument, but I emph

asize a strong practice regiment. Your child will understand that while learning music and an instrument can be fun, there will be some work involved if they want to become great. I usually use either the Alfred or Rubank method books to supplement a curriculum that I tailor make for each individual student. Any question or confusion a student has about anything during the lesson will be explained in detail and dealt with until he/she understands the concept. I've had many students pass all levels of the ABRSM and NYSSMA exams as well as receive academic scholarships for musical excellence.

*** Studio Equipment ***Lessons in the living room, drums set, piano,

*** Travel Equipment ***I require that students buy the books I suggest, but if it is necessary, I can provide photocopies of pages from the books that I own. I also require my students to provide all writing equipment.

Reviews

Noah January 19, 2018·Saxophone·In home

My son really enjoyed his first lesson. Looking forward to how he will progress.

Matt January 8, 2018·Trumpet·In home

David came on time for our schedule lesson and came in ready to go. He helped my son the corrected way to blow trumpet (which he never learn from school) and broke down lesson so that he is not over wheeled. In just first lesson, I can hear the difference in my son's use of trumpet.

David N

David N

About Eli H.

About Eli

Eli has been been a professional touring and studio musician for over 15 years and has had the pleasure of traveling internationally and performing many styles of music with many different people.

Growing up in a musical household resulted in an early start to Eli’s musical career. It allowed him to become a studio and live drummer at the age of 14, and has been performing and recording ever since.

Selected for the Pennsylvania Governor’s School for the Arts, Eli then continued his musical education by attaining a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from The Cincinnati College Conservatory of music.

Eli Has been Teaching for over 20 years and is always looking forward to teaching new students how to be a better musician.

I can teach a variety of styles from Jazz to Metal to Bossa Nova and Cumbia. Ukulele Beginner-Intermediate I have been playing in many different bands both live and in the studio since the age of 14.

So I can cover a lot of ground when it comes to concepts and genres.

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Reviews

Joshua June 15, 2015·Music Theory·In home

Very patient and fun to work with!

BeckyO November 1, 2010··

Eli has been awesome. My son is really enjoying his lessons and feels so happy with his progress every week. Eli obviously has skills AND he knows how to share them. We couldn't be happier.

HeatherP July 20, 2010··

Very good with young children

My son is 4 years old and has only had two sessions with Eli however, he does a very good job of communicating with him on his level and keeping his focus. He also has given him practice exercises which seem to do the trick.

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About Asaf N.

From Marimba, to snare, to timpani, percussion is a wide ranging art with lots of technique and theory involved. Let's do it!

About Asaf

I would not be the person I am today if music wasn't the focal point in my life as it is. Not only do I absolutely love performing and studying music myself, but I adore teaching as well. Part of the musical experience is taking what you hear and what you learn from others and building on it to create your own musical contributions. I take the gifts other teachers and musicians have given me very seriously and subsequently feel the great importance of imparting my knowledge unto others.

Whether you want to be a professional, or just be competent enough to enjoy yourself, we all practice, study technique and gain knowledge about music with really only one goal in mind: To have all the tools necessary to express ourselves adeptly through music. All the technique in the world will not make you a great musician. Similarly, you can be extre

mely creative and knowledgeable, but if you don't have the technique and vocabulary needed to express your ideas, you will find yourself very limited and suppressed musically.

My philosophy about teaching follows that I am here to provide you with those tools in a fun, exciting way. When I say "tools" I mean the whole toolbox. This includes giving you the technique, correcting bad habits, providing listening material, finding holes in your playing and much more. A good music teacher must be more than an instructor, but a mentor and an inspirational guide. My best teachers were the ones who could cultivate my playing not just through the physical aspects but ESPECIALLY through the cerebral. We ALL need encouragement and inspiration to get the best out of our natural talent. I love to encourage my students to do their best. To strive to not only complete exercises, but to execute them well. Every student is different, and therefore I will tailor their education with me on an individual basis. I expect a lot out of my students because I strongly believe in my teaching ability as well as their ability to learn and feel good about their progress.

My approach to providing all these things is modeled around my best experiences in learning and performing. I've studied under some of the absolute best players and teachers in the world. Here are just a couple:

TOM KOLORGraduated from William Paterson as well as with a Masters from the Julliard School of MusicProfessor of Music at the University at Buffalo.

IAN FROMANProfessor of Drums at Berklee School of MusicProfessional, world renowned Drummer

I've also graduated Cum Laude from the University at Buffalo with a degree in Music Performance, Dean's List and Honor Roll awards.

Some of my experience includes being featured in Tommy Igoe's "Great Hands For a Lifetime" DVD which received 5 stars from Modern Drummer magazine in 2010. I've also played great venues like Gramercy Theatre and Central Park in NYC among others. I've played in Big Bands, Symphony Orchestras, Klesmer and Percussion ensembles, and more.

I really could go on forever talking about music, what it means to me, how I approach teaching, etc. When you love music and teaching as much as I do, you really can't help it. It's ingrained in you. Precisely as ingrained as I like to think being a fun, caring, disciplined, attentive teacher is in me. Whether it be for you or your child, I can easily promise that I will deliver the same success-bound mentoring that I have to my students for over 10 years running.

Can't wait to hear from you!

-Asaf

*** Lesson Details ***-I am here for you.

I would not teach if I wasn't very interested in the progress of my students. I want you to be the biggest, baddest, awe-inspiring drummer/percussionist possible. I want to ultimately end up at your shows and concerts and be able to say "That's MY student." You can always be guaranteed that when studying with me everything I assign has precisely that goal in mind.

-Strict or Laid Back?

Many people might ask if I'm strict, or laid back. My response is that I am excited and driven to help you reach success. I will never scold you because that sort of practice has no place in teaching. I also understand that learning isn't just a straight upwards incline of progression. We're all humans. Sometimes we progress astronomically in a short period of time and sometimes we have to fight hard to nail something. Sometimes we have a lot of time to practice, and sometimes we simply don't. My job is to make the most out of every situation and help you learn no matter what. That being said, I will still hound you to practice as much as healthily possible!

-What do you want out of music?

Probably the most important question I will undoubtedly ask you upon meeting you is why you are taking lessons. There is no way to formulate a tailored lesson plan if I don't know what it is you're working towards.

-Expected Material

Like I said, I can't tell you very specifically what your lesson plan will be, but I CAN give you examples of what I almost always assign. Individually written out exercises, exercises from books, assigned reading/listening, song covers, chart writing/reading, improvisational exercises, rudiment study, warm-up routines, among others.

-Don't be Afraid to Make Mistakes

Mistakes are part of the learning process! If you aren't making mistakes then I'm doing something wrong. Never be afraid to make mistakes.

-You Get What You Give

I promise I'll be there for you. I'll be there to give you the material and show you the path, but you're going to have to be there for yourself as well. The more prepared you are for our lessons, the more you will grow from the time we spend together.

Mastering an instrument takes time and effort both by student and teacher. The sooner we get started the sooner you get on that path. I'm ready whenever you are.

*** Travel Equipment ***Numerous practice pads and snare stands. I expect my students to only provide their own Drum Sticks and books.

*** Specialties ***I pride myself on being as versatile as I possibly can be. I can aptly teach most styles including Jazz, Rock, Funk, Latin, Hip Hop\R&B, Classical, and more.

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Reviews

Thomas L. October 9, 2015·Drum·In studio

Eventhough it was just our first lesson, Asaf is a patient teacher and gave lots instruction.

Sophia P. September 15, 2015·Drum·In studio

Very informative, we went over terminology, how important it is to have the proper sticks and the correct way to hold them. Reading the music and playing the proper beat. We did a lot for 1 lesson, my daughter loved it.

Bindia M. December 20, 2012··

Flexible teaching methods!

Asaf is just brilliant. During the first session, my son was very distracted by the other things in the music room ie lights, instruments etc but Asaf managed to engage him by being extremely flexible in his teaching ie he is not wedded to any order and has a lesson plan in mind but goes with the flow and the interest of the child - this ensures that all that was intended on being covered is, and as a result of the flexibility, my son just loves these drum lesson and Asaf. Asaf makes him focus and has built a great teacher/student relationship in only 3 session. I would highly recommend Asaf.

Asaf N.

Asaf N.

About Charles S.

About Charles

Outside of teaching percussion and musical performances I have worked in special education for over 15 years.

My life of music started knee high at the age of 4 playing drums and piano. At the age of 15 I gave my first musical performance, from that stage on I knew my talent had found a home.

In the 11th grade I toured with a local funk group in Washington DC through 26 cities learning music and the life of travel at an early age. During my last high school and college years I performed extensively playing classical, jazz, rock, funk, go-go, gospel, marching band, R&B, and with local rap artist.

Recording credits and highlights include work with Def Jam artist Steady Eddy, recording go-go Mario with Double Agent Rock, and recordings with Little Benny and the Masters.

My other musical passion is teaching. Throughout my col

lege years and beyond I served as a percussion instructor and assistant band director at Morgan State University. As part of the Morgan State University Magnificent Marching Machine I served as a instructional leader in music and performance mentor for the team. I taught part time as a percussion instructor at Milford Mill High School giving individual lessons for over 10 years.

*** Lesson Details ***Within the first three months of lessons student will gain a strong foundation of sight reading and basic drum techniques in both rudiment studies and playing the drum set. My style of teaching music consist of breaking each skill down into chunks and allowing students to learn using their individual learning styles. I utilize rewards for perfect practice and each lesson contains a safe, fun learning atmosphere with students exhibiting in their best behavior.

*** Travel Equipment ***I will bring a practice pad. Students should have a drum set.

*** Specialties ***Jazz, Funk, pop, and classical.

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Reviews

Charlynne L. March 18, 2018·Drum·In studio

Great lessons.

Melanie H. April 10, 2017·Drum·In home

Our son has never played in a marching band before but is interested in playing in the marching band when he attends college in July so we were specifically looking for an instructor who had marching band experience to teach our son since he's never participated in the marching band in high school. We saw Mr. Stewart's profile and decided to have him work with our son. That was the BEST decision that we could have ever made. We have been nothing but impressed with Mr. Stewart. He definitely has the gift of teaching and he is very patient, knowledgeable, and he challenges our son to get better by giving him homework after each session. Our son absolutely LOVES Mr. Stewart and he is always excited for each lesson and to practice what Mr. Stewart has taught him. Our son went from not playing in the marching band at all in high school to making his college band and receiving a scholarship all thanks to Mr. Stewart. We are very grateful for his outstanding teaching and we would definitely recommend Mr. Stewart 100%.

Wesley E. March 4, 2017·Drum·In studio

Charles is calm and patient, and yet gently pushes for better and better performance every lesson. As the parent, it is amazing to me to see how much my son has learned in only 3 lessons... and working on a drum set right from the beginning has been very inspiring to my son. We highly recommend Charles!

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About Andrew M.

Andrew has degrees in Percussion Performance from Indiana University and Cal State University Long Beach. He has studied a number of different instruments with some of the best players in the business. You may study any kind of percussion whether it is classical, jazz, marching, or world that you wish to learn.

About Andrew

Andrew is a dynamic educator with years of experience teaching students of all ages. He recently graduated from the prestigious Jacobs School of Music at Indiana University, where he studied classical percussion, jazz, and Afro-Cuban music. A native to southern California, Andrew obtained his bachelors degree from the Bob Cole Conservatory of Music at California State University Long Beach.

Andrew's love for teaching has been on display in private settings, as well as classrooms. He enjoys learning new techniques to inspire and challenge students to maximize their potential while also providing a fun environment.

Throughout his career, Andrew has performed both solo and ensemble music in numerous venues across the country, including the Wiltern Theater in Los Angeles and Carnegie Hall in New York. His performance career started

when he joined the Santa Clara Vanguard Cadets as a snare drummer in 2003. During his membership, the corps won the Best Percussion Caption Award twice and the DCI Open Class World Championship in 2008. His passion and dedication as a marimba soloist were on display when he performed the world premier of Nathan Daughtrey's Halcyon Days with the CSULB Percussion Ensemble. Since beginning his studies at the Jacobs School of Music, Andrew has recorded and performed as the bongocero with seven time Grammy nominee Wayne Wallace in the IU Latin Jazz Ensemble.

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Reviews

Sean C. November 6, 2017·Percussion·Online

To the extent of what I learned in my experience, Andrew is a great percussion teacher for students looking to join a band or marching band. He obviously had a great amount of knowledge and experience with the instrument itself but also the teaching of it. By the end of the first lesson we had already moved to patterns with 8 strikes on each hand and was presented with an arsenal of other exercises for afterwards to find a rate of improvement when given time. He is a very patient teacher and is sensitive to mistakes and which ones to focus on. I could safely recommend him to any of my friends who are also into percussion, and can speak from experience that any nervousness of getting a new teacher quickly dissolves after the first lesson. Great teacher.

Tasos September 20, 2017·Algebra 1·In studio

Excellent teacher!

zain March 28, 2016·Algebra·Online

he is a good teacher

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About Matthew F.

I have been playing drums and percussion for 15 years, I can teach you everything you need to know about rhythm reading, improvising, technique, and more!Whether you want to play rock, jazz, classical percussion, contemporary percussion, metal, pop, or anything else, I can help you learn the basic skills you need to master these styles!

About Matthew

Hello!

My name is Matthew, and I teach many people of different ages academic topics from arithmetic to algebra 2/trigonometry, science, reading/grammar, as well as all kinds of music and instruments!

I hold a Masters of Arts in Music Composition from Mills College in Oakland, CA and a Bachelor of Arts in Music from UC Santa Cruz.

Musically, I specialize in drum set and percussion, piano, voice, and guitar instruction (4 and 6 string) woodwinds, brass, and violin family strings. I have been teaching in Walnut Creek at my home studio/office for 10 years, worked with local schools such as Walnut Creek Intermediate, Meher School, Las Lomas High School, and Stanley Middle School.

Some basic pedagogical ideas:

I make sure each student learns the necessary techniques, rhythms as well as reading and performing skills that each p

layer must posses on their instrument or voice to properly play the instrument. Alongside this crucial, ever-lasting quest to have a good sound and play the repertoire of the instrument I teach many other aspects of music that most students indulge in as they progress. These including but not limited to ear-training, improvising, composition, theory, music history and appreciation, transcribing, arranging and performing popular music, basic tracking and recording/computer compositions, as well as basic singing and drumming. Each student has different goals and interests that draw them toward certain aspects of music. My goal is to supplement the basic music training while offering guidance in more complex areas of music that bring excitement and enjoyment to learning. I work with each student to find not only what aspects of music they are interested in but also what styles and groups they enjoy and aspire to play or just enjoying listening or singing along. Balancing all of this during a 30-60 min lesson and then during your practice time in the week can be tough, so I work with each student to set priorities and goals based on their interest and skill and follow through with them!

Here are a few of my BASIC POLICIES; please read so you can know if we will be a good fit. If you have any questions about them feel free to ask, but I rarely make exceptions!

-I only accept students (usually) who have already started reading

-All students and parents must be on a fairly flexible schedule and reply to phone calls or texts on the day of lessons. With 30+ concurrent students and families, schedules are constantly changing to accommodate each other. If it works for everyone to help another student out by switching, then I will request that of you, but I ALWAYS GUARANTEE YOUR SCHEDULED LESSON TIME.

-I always guarantee your full lesson time. I ask that each student (unless previously noted) keeps 10-15 minutes before and after their lesson free in case of an unexpected delay or cancellation.

- I require AT LEAST 72 HOURS ADVANCED NOTICE FOR RESCHEDULES. If you need to reschedule then I prefer knowing a week in advance. IF YOU CANCEL WITHIN 72 HOURS I DO NOT GUARANTEE A MAKEUP SPOT.

If you are at all interested for yourself or your child please don't hesitate to call and ask questions.

Have a great day!

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Reviews

Sam Maldonado January 11, 2016·Composition·In studio

great time at my first lesson

Denise S. October 31, 2015·Viola·In studio

My daughter took lessons with Matthew for 5 months and we are severely disappointed. We originally switched because he was constantly changing the days/times of our lesson to accommodate his schedule or that of new clients, which is a terrible way to do business. However, after having one lesson with a new teacher, we realized that my daughter never learned the basics of viola playing - how to hold the instrument properly, how tightly the bow should be strung, the names of the parts of the instrument, etc. He also rented us an instrument that didn't tune properly at twice the cost of what local music stores were charging. She also was not properly measured for that instrument, which I learned was standard. Since I am not musically trained, I went on faith that she was being taught properly. After the first lesson with a teacher who actually knew what they were doing, my daughter was in tears over all the things she didn't know. I feel like all those basics should have been covered in the first month of instruction. In addition, his bio states that he has been teaching for 10 years. At his current age, that would mean he started teaching at the age of 13 or 14. I'm very disappointed in our experience with both this instructor and with Take Lessons for not vetting their instructors properly.

Adriana September 25, 2015·Violin·In home

It was excellent. He has the patience and the knowledge. I do recommend him.

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About Kevin J.

Have had over 8 years experience playing percussion in concert band. Would love to help you. Have lots of experience helping with music notation, site reading, and rhythms on various music al instruments. Thanks!

About Kevin

I truly enjoy teaching. I've taught in the public school classroom for 11 years. Teaching music is so so much FUN! And it should be fun for the students to learn. When I'm teaching I tell all my students that if they don't enjoy and smile about something, then we need to change something.

I would love to start lessons with you soon.

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Reviews

Aidan May 7, 2017·Guitar·In home

I was out of town when my 15-year old son had his lesson with Kevin, so I sent a text to my son to find out how it went. "He is the best guitar teacher ever!!" my son replied. I think that says it all.

Ava Z. March 29, 2017·Guitar·In studio

First lesson was great! On the drive home Ava said, " I'm so excited I feel like I could run a marathon!"
Haha Thank you Kevin!

Igor March 7, 2017·Acoustic Guitar·Online

Exceptional pro - highly recommend!

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About Ani K.

About Ani

Lessons are tailored to the students' level and goal. Caring and compassionate instructor. Your dream is my dream and I will diligently work with you to help you on your path. If you have the will to learn and practice, you will see improvements and achievements. ​I've been teaching music to children and adults for about 20 years both privately and at teaching studios.I have played as a substitute church pianist, ballet accompanist, and have spent the last four years playing for a variety of private and corporate events and weddings.

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Reviews

Frank Baratta March 6, 2018·Ukulele·Online

Salomey January 9, 2018·Violin·Online

She take her time in explaining every sound, it appears or can be learned from the book 📖.

Taylor December 5, 2017·Violin·Online

Ani was very patient and very informative. Thank You! Can't wait till my next lesson.

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About Matthew J.

Hey, I'd love to teach you or your student! I can show and explain how to be more efficient, consistent, and creative while providing a serious academic environment. My philosophy is 'music begat theory', in other words playing music is fun. Connecting with people comes first, while theory and history follows. My lessons explore the entire world of music, while my in-depth drum set curriculum approaches the drum set through all forms of percussion, rock and jazz. I have a studio in Austin with 2 drum sets, a piano keyboard, and a plethora of other gear. I want to share the love and resonance that I have experienced while discovering music. I do what I love and I love what I do!

About Matthew

I'd love to teach you or your student! I can show and explain how to be more efficient, consistent, and creative while providing a serious academic environment. My philosophy is 'music begat theory', in other words playing music is fun. Connecting with people comes first, while theory and history follows. My lessons explore the entire world of music, while my in-depth drum set curriculum approaches the drum set through all forms of percussion, rock and jazz. I will do lessons in your home, online, or at my studio. I want to share the love and resonance that I have experienced while discovering music. I do what I love and I love what I do!

...

Reviews

Amy Holton June 14, 2016··

Matthew is very kind and patient with my son, and very knowledgeable. He is really getting him to think about what drumming is, how drumming works, and how to use his body to control the sound the drums create.

Jules Esh June 2, 2016··

Matt is an excellent teacher and drummer. He is patient, encouraging and positive. I know Matt through his involvement and leadership in Earphoria, a music community here in Austin that provides lessons, rehearsal and performance space, recordings, and lodging. If you have an opportunity to work with Matt, it will be time well spent.

Affordable

Effective

Percussion Lesson Reviews from Students

Students are raving about their Percussion instructors on TakeLessons.
Check out some of these recent reviews.

Review by Erik

"Kolja is very patient, enthusiastic and encouraging during lessons. His extensive knowledge of the craft is a treasure to anyone looking to learn more abo

ut drumming/rhythm. As great of a drummer he is, I believe his calling is rooted in teaching. Highly recommend"

...

New York, NY teacher:
Kolja G.

Review by Clyde

"Scott has been wonderful with my child! He really knows how to motivate him to practice while still making the lessons fun. I recommend him for any young

drum student."

...

New York, NY teacher:
Scott S.

Review by Mark

"My 9-year-old son, Luke, who is on the spectrum (PDD-NOS) studied with David for the better part of a year and the experience was terrific. In addition t

o being extremely communicative and reliable, David was kind and patient. David kept Luke focused and entertained while also inviting him to think about rhythm in ways that made sense to Luke's brain. We happily traveled from Inwood to "Downtown Brooklyn" for lessons because the level of instruction was that good and, I think, Luke's progress demonstrates that. Luke was bitten by the hockey bug, so we are taking a break from percussion right now, but I wouldn't hesitate to return to David's studio should time allow in the future."